Don King Promoter Date of Birth: 21.08.1931 Country: USA

1. Biography of Don King
2. Early Life and Criminal Activities
3. Entry into Boxing Promotion
4. Success as a Promoter
5. Controversies and Legacy

Biography of Don King

Don King, born on August 21, 1930, in Cleveland, Ohio, is an American boxing promoter. Journalists often refer to King as the godfather of American professional boxing. His fame is so great that in 1997, HBO Pictures produced a biographical drama film about him. The film, directed by John Herzfeld, is based on facts from the controversial book "Only in America: The Life and Crimes of Don King" by American journalist Jack Newfield.

Early Life and Criminal Activities

Don King was born into a poor African-American family. From a young age, he earned money by selling roasted peanuts. Like many African-American boys at the time, he got involved in amateur boxing, viewing it as an opportunity to succeed. However, after a knockout in his first and only serious competition, the "Golden Gloves" tournament, King never put on boxing gloves again. Despite this, the skills he acquired in the gym proved useful as he became one of the most ruthless and merciless extortionists in Cleveland.

King formed a gang of young criminals who terrorized the streets, particularly targeting small merchants. Ironically, in his early years, King's dream was to obtain a legal education and serve justice. However, he lacked the funds to pay for his education. Instead, he gained practical financial knowledge by working as a courier and assistant in a bookmaking office. Unsatisfied with his mundane job, King realized that there were many ways to make money by the age of 25.

Entry into Boxing Promotion

After spending four years in prison for involuntary manslaughter, King met the famous singer Lloyd Price, who introduced him to the young Muhammad Ali. Ali was captivated by King's charm, eloquence, and wit, and King became Ali's business patron. This marked the beginning of King's career in the world of professional boxing. He quickly realized the financial benefits of his friendship with the talented boxer.

In 1974, Don King organized and successfully conducted the fight between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman for the heavyweight championship. This fight, known as the "Rumble in the Jungle," not only made Ali the new world champion but also established King as a skilled and resourceful promoter. From then on, the most prominent figures and strongest heavyweights in professional boxing sought King for business opportunities.

Success as a Promoter

From 1974 until the late 1990s, King organized and promoted seven out of 48 matches for the world heavyweight championship. Additionally, under his patronage, more than two hundred thrilling fights for world titles in various weight categories took place. It is unnecessary to list all the boxers who benefited from King's support, as a significant number of world champions owe their success to him.

In recent years, King has become interested in organizing women's boxing matches, recognizing the potential profitability of the sport. He views women's boxing as an elegant and airy show, despite its reputation for being brutal. King's influence in the boxing world has diminished over time due to changes in the industry. Television networks now dictate which boxers they want, diminishing the power of promoters like King.

Controversies and Legacy

Don King has faced numerous legal battles throughout his career. He has been accused of financial manipulations, but many cases against him have failed to result in convictions. King's ability to negotiate and manipulate boxers has earned him significant wealth, although not always through ethical means. Despite the controversies surrounding him, King has left an indelible mark on the world of professional boxing.

His charismatic personality, cunning business tactics, and remarkable financial acumen have made him a legendary figure in the sport. King's impact on modern professional boxing cannot be denied. He has been both celebrated and criticized for his contributions to the industry. Today, his influence has diminished, but his legacy as one of the most influential and controversial figures in boxing history remains.